Northcliffe Golf & Country Club

Northcliffe’s beleaguered existence has set the stage for one of the best golf values in the San Antonio area. Originally designed in 1979 by Joe Finger to be the centerpiece of a housing community, the houses didn’t sell and the course fell on hard financial times. In 1992 a group led by pro John Clay bought the facility and began the long process of improvement.

Those improvements have continued in recent years and the course now has an improved reputation among the golfing public. The new irrigation system, in particular, keeps the course in excellent condition. Now the fairways are plush and putts roll true.

Finger’s links-style design features generous fairways and the prominent use of water, along with dry creek beds that snake through the course. The front nine is basically wide open and straight, with the exception of the bending par 5s. The back is more enjoyable with long par 3s, one of which requires a carry over water, and short par 5s that make for solid birdie opportunities. If you’re spraying it, the dry creek beds will cause problems. Another notable hole on the back is No. 14, which rides downhill along I-35.

Other notes: Finger built an extra hole as a good-faith effort to build an additional nine holes once home sales improved. The homes never sold, however, and this 19th hole remains today. For food and drink, only the basics are offered.

Getting there : From I-35 north, take Exit 178 and turn right onto Country Club Drive. The entrance to the course is on the right side of the street.